That pesky “storage full” notification always comes at the worst time. Instead of scrambling to delete photos and apps to free up space on your smartphone, take our advice. Check out these hacks to help you organize your photos and videos, clear up digital clutter and see exactly what’s eating up all the space on your device.
3 ways to make sure Facebook really isn't listening
We all know that Google can listen to your conversations, but what about Facebook? The social media giant claims that it doesn’t eavesdrop, but how often have you seen ads for products relating to a recent conversation?
It’s a bit creepy to have suggested products or services pop up in your feed after talking about them. There have been many memes made about the seemingly telepathic nature of Facebook. Targeted advertising is how Facebook makes the bulk of its revenue, so it wouldn’t be a far-fetched idea. Tap or click here to see how your phone really is listening.
While Facebook has denied listening in on conversations, it did confirm in 2016 that it uses the mic if you gave it permission. Even if what it says is true, you can never be too careful. Here are three ways to make sure that Facebook isn’t listening to your conversations.
1. Check your Facebook permissions
Before downloading an app, you can usually see the device functions it needs to operate and its requested permissions. Some won’t be out of the ordinary, but there have been instances where certain permissions weren’t necessary.
There is no reason why a mobile game would need access to your contact list to work or why a flashlight app needs to know your location. You can see the permissions an app requires for mobile devices, and you can revoke access if needed. Tap or click here to check your app permissions.
In the case of Facebook, check whether it has access to your microphone and turn it off if it does. Just a word of caution: not all apps allow you to revoke certain permissions. In those cases, you must either delete the app completely or live with it.
How to check Facebook’s permissions on iOS:
- Open Settings.
- Scroll down to the app section and select Facebook.
- A list of access requests will be displayed here.
- Slide the toggle next to Microphone to the left to disable it.
To see a complete list of iOS apps that have access to your microphone:
- Tap Settings
- Tap Privacy
- Scroll down and tap Microphone
- A list of apps with access to your microphone will appear
- Slide the toggle to the left next to each app you want to disable
Here is how to do it on a Mac:
My cryptocurrency eBook is a bestseller! Grab your copy now
Crypto is everywhere, and I don’t want you investing a bunch of your hard-earned money without the right know-how. That’s why I put together a new eBook to help you get the basics down.
In “Cryptocurrency 101: The Beginner’s Guide to Buying, Selling and Spending Digital Currency the Safe Way,” I break down the basics of the cryptocurrency boom. If you want to invest in cryptocurrency, it can be very complicated to know where to even begin. I’ll take you through your options when it comes to buying and storing digital currency and give you pro tips to keep you safe from hackers and scammers.
We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.
Scammed on a payment app? Tough luck
If you fall victim to a scammer who is using a payment app, you’re out of luck. There are no rules or laws to protect you and get your money back once the money goes out of your account and into somebody else’s.
Warning: Free VPNs are putting you at risk
© Spaxia | Dreamstime.com
There’s nothing wrong with trying to save a little money every now and then. Cutting back on dining out or getting a $6 latte every day is a good place to start.
But one thing you definitely don’t want to skimp on is online security. You think you’re saving money with free VPN downloads or apps, but they will cost you in the end.
Stop using that same old password for your online accounts - Try this instead
Hackers have plenty of tricks when it comes to making you their victim. They can send you emails containing viruses and malware. They can send you links that go to malicious websites. They can get you through phony social media accounts and apps that look like legitimate sources.
Samsung apps could be spying on you
If you have a Samsung smartphone, you should know about the phone’s pre-installed apps that are spying on you.
FBI app crackdown, X-rated emails, tech productivity hacks
The FBI busted criminals using a super-secret app to communicate all their comings and goings. Kim has the scoop on how they did it. Scammers are sending X-rated emails to scare people into paying up, and the team dives into tech productivity hacks to make life easier.
Can you trust the new Citizen app?
Citizen is a new app that acts as a public safety network. Basically, it alerts you about crimes. It sounds promising — but let’s see if it lives up to the hype.
Watch out for the Dark Patterns hiding in your tech
We’ve all seen this. Products are added to your cart automatically. Boxes are pre-checked when you’re setting new tech up. Apps and websites trick you. It’s called Dark Patterns, and here’s what you need to know.
The government agency monitoring what you do online
Which government agency is watching what we do online? The answer will surprise you. Plus, fake crypto apps scamming people out of their cash, Google’s latest additions to Maps and more, and an app that started a manhunt … for the wrong guy.
Craziest cryptocurrencies, Apple's 'Epic' trial, IP address scam
Apple is in an ‘Epic’ court battle that could change the way we pay for apps. You’ve heard of Bitcoin, but what about some of the other cryptocurrencies that make up this $2 trillion industry? Then Ben, Mike and Allie talk streaming devices. Spoiler: Roku reigns supreme. And find out if Allie can fool the guys this week in Brand New or Not True.
5 new uses for your Amazon Fire tablet
Looking for a new tablet? You’re in luck as Amazon recently unveiled a new range of its hugely popular Amazon Fire tablets. From the basic to hardcore and even ones for kids, the new Fire tablets are giving Apple a run for its money. Tap or click here to check out Apple’s latest devices.
Better than an app: 5 weather stations for more accurate forecasting
The weather changes unexpectedly, so who better to trust with accurate forecasts than your own personal meteorologist?
When you need to be prepared for inclement weather, turn to the weather station right on your doorstep. Set up the sensors around your home and read the display to see if you should expect humidity, impending storms or sunny skies.
Windows woes, NFT craze, Clubhouse copycat app
The latest Windows 10 update is a mess. Find out if it’s finally safe to download. Plus, the team dives deep into the NFT craze. Why are people ponying up millions for things they’ll never touch? Plus, there’s a copycat of the social media app Clubhouse floating around. Get the details on how to spot the fake.
Sleep-tracking apps: helpful or hurtful?
Your phone is a great tool for keeping track of your sleep schedule. But they might also be a hindrance. Here’s what you need to know.
Why everyone's escaping Twitter and other social media apps
People are quitting Twitter and social media every day. Some are famous. Most are not. But their reasons for quitting are eerily similar.
Are delivery apps deceiving you?
If you order food to be delivered from your local restaurants using Post Mates, Door Dash or another service, there’s a new trick to get your business you need to be aware of.
This audio app is the talk of the town
Big names like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk are joining this new audio-only social media app. It’s super exclusive, since you can only get in with an invitation from an existing user. But there are a few threats you’ve got to watch out for.
Clubhouse, dangerous app, robocalls galore
This week, the team dives into the hot new app Clubhouse and the security gotchas you need to know. It’s time to update, whether you have a Windows PC or Mac, and there’s a file-sharing app you should seriously reconsider using if it’s on your phone. Plus, 2020 was a wild year for robocalls. How will 2021 stack up?